Short-term doxycycline use in children

ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS

Short-term doxycycline use in children (June 2018)

Tetracycline antibiotics have traditionally been avoided in children <8 years because of permanent tooth discoloration associated with repeated use. However, doxycycline binds less readily to calcium than other tetracyclines, and the risk of dental staining with short courses of doxycycline is minimal. Updated recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics now permit doxycycline for ≤21 days in children of all ages. Children who use doxycycline should avoid excess sun exposure given the photosensitivity associated with this agent.

American Academy of Pediatrics. Tetracyclines. In: Red Book: 2018 Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases, 31st ed, Kimberlin DW, Brady MT, Jackson MA, Long SS (Eds), American Academy of Pediatrics, Itasca, IL 2018. p.905.